Name: Heart Jam Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup powdered sugar; 1 egg yolk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup raspberry or strawberry jam (or any favorite jam); Extra powdered sugar for dusting

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Heart Jam Cookies are tender, buttery treats with a sweet jam center peeking through a heart-shaped cutout. These pretty cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re also a lovely way to show someone I care. Whether for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just a thoughtful gesture, they’re a charming homemade gift or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cookies strike the perfect balance between beauty and simplicity. The dough is easy to work with, the cookies hold their shape well, and the jam adds a bright, fruity burst in every bite. The heart cutouts make them extra special and festive, and I like that I can customize the jam flavors to suit the occasion or my mood.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsalted butter (softened)
Powdered sugar
Egg yolk
Vanilla extract
Salt
Raspberry or strawberry jam (or any favorite jam)
Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

I begin by creaming the butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
I add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until fully combined.
Gradually, I stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.
I divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, and chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Once chilled, I roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Using a large heart-shaped cookie cutter, I cut out cookies, and with a smaller heart cutter, I cut a heart-shaped window from the center of half of them.
I place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
After letting them cool, I spread jam on the full heart cookies and gently press the cutout cookies on top to sandwich them.
I finish by dusting the tops with powdered sugar.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20 to 24 sandwich cookies.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: around 1 hour

Variations

I like changing the jam flavor to suit the season—apricot in spring, cherry in summer, or even a spiced fig jam in winter. Sometimes I add a bit of almond extract to the dough for a richer flavor. For a chocolate twist, I’ve also filled them with Nutella or chocolate ganache. Using different shapes like stars or circles makes them perfect for other holidays, too.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If I know I’ll be storing them longer, I keep the cookies and jam separate until just before serving. They also freeze well—either assembled or as plain cookies. I thaw them at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Do I need special cookie cutters?

I use two heart-shaped cutters—one larger, one smaller—but any shape works as long as one fits inside the other to create the window.

Can I use store-bought dough?

I’ve tried it in a pinch, but homemade dough gives a much better flavor and texture. Plus, it’s easier to control the shape and thickness.

Why is my dough too soft to roll?

If the dough gets too warm, it softens. I just pop it back in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before rolling again.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, I substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture changes slightly, but they still taste great.

How do I keep the cookies crisp?

I store them in a dry, airtight container and try to avoid overfilling with jam. If I want to keep them extra crisp, I add the jam just before serving.

Conclusion

Heart Jam Cookies are more than just a pretty treat—they’re sweet, tender, and full of love in every bite. I enjoy making them for special occasions or anytime I want to spread a little joy. With their charming look and delicious flavor, they’re always a favorite wherever I take them.